Begun in 1979 for Norwegian and European clubs, the event has been expanding. There will be more than 30 teams with over 1,500 players. On the eve of the tournament the event takes on an Olympic flavor as the teams march into the arena under their national colors. Afterwards two top international teams play a match.

Prior to the tournament U-13 will be in Lillehammer for a culture exchange experience. The team will be enjoying the hospitality of Norwegian families for five or six days.
“The girls all stay with families that have daughters who also play soccer,” said assistant coach Dave Goss, who will be making the trip. “They do kind of all the regular day routines.”

Jordan Corry, Erin Graf, Tiana Bonn and Une Solheim, who lives in Lillehammer, will be enjoying their second Norway sojourn.

Up top at the forward positions will be Michelle Goss at center. She is flanked by Graf, of Carpinteria, and Solheim. Moveable pieces may have Gabriella Goss, Michelle’s younger sister; Adaezia Hill; Goleta resident Amber Hill; and Megan Grajeda, from Oxnard, at the forward slots.
“Michelle is very good at winning the ball,” said Eric Graf, a co-coach with Edward Bonn. “She has a good nose for the ball. Erin has very good ball skills and creates opportunities. Megan can play anywhere and has a massive, powerful kick.” 

Midfielder positions will be manned by Katarina Rocha from Santa Ynez, Bonn, Corry and Gabrielle Goss.

“Katarina has a high work rate and Tiana is quick,” Graf said. “Gabrielle is tenacious and Jordan has a strong kick.” 

U-13 defenders include Sydney Read, Caroline Vance, Natalee Yamasaki of Santa Ynez, Holland and Hill.

“Sydney is an aggressive tackler,” Graf said. “Natalee has a high-level of ball skills and Hill has the ability to hit the long ball on the counter attacks. Holland possesses good defensive skills.”  

Hanna Ball will be between the pipes.

“Hanna has very quick reactions,” Graf said. “She’s fearless.”

His overall appraisal is totally positive.

“We’ll be very competitive,” he said. “If we have any luck at all we’ll end up in the finals.
“It’s an absolutely wonderful group of girls. They have melded together and like to play soccer. They will be fantastic American ambassadors showing the best of America.”

Adding a behind-the-scenes note Graf said, “We’re fortunate to have an equally fantastic group of parents that are very supportive and helpful.”

You can help
A fund-raising target of $50,000 has been established to cover the team’s expenses. All donations are tax deductible. Adults pay 100 percent of their expenses. Checks should be made payable to AYSO Region 122 - Cultural Exchange and sent to Daniel Corry, 4608 Via Roblada, Santa Barbara, CA 93110. Corry may also be reached at 805-252-6273 or dcorry@gmail.com.  Additional information may be obtained at www.sb-united.com.